Tina Mitchell Skinner receives her MBE at Windsor Castle investiture

15 December 2025 | News, Supporters

Brain Tumour Support’s Founder, Tina Mitchell Skinner, shared her reflections on receiving her MBE at Windsor Castle

Since hearing the incredible news of being awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours in June this year, I have awaited details of the investiture with genuine excitement, and a little nervousness.

That special day came in November at Windsor Castle. It was a freezing cold, in fact snowy, morning as we drove up the Great Walk towards the castle, but the chilly start couldn’t take away from the impressive view which stood in front of us.

When greeted by official palace staff, we were asked if we wanted to know who was officiating that day. I leaned through the car window eagerly, saying yes please! – It was my favourite Royal, Prince William, so my day was already made up!!

My lovely husband Paul Skinner and my very special parents in law Roger and Margaret Mitchell were invited as my guests and I felt privileged to have them beside me to witness and support what felt like such an achievement in memory of Paul Mitchell.

When Paul died, so tragically young due to his brain tumour, I was determined his death wouldn’t be in vain. Somehow this award was for him, almost a public recognition of the fact that his life mattered so very much – and we were all witness to that at this very moment.

Walking nervously towards the Prince in high heels, I nearly ended up prostrate in front of him! Thankfully for both of us I just about managed to stay upright and, after a small curtsy and with the biggest smile on my face, he pinned the medal onto me. In the midst of nerves, excitement, pride, gratitude and many emotional memories, what happened after that is a bit of a blur but one crystal clear memory is that Prince William is the most charming man with an absolute heart for charity work – wanting to know all about Brain Tumour Support and our work.

My family were able to stand just behind where it was all happening and we then left together. My husband Paul said he had never seen me so nervous, and it’s true, I had never felt like this before.

Reflecting on this since, I think it was the feeling that I was standing in front of His Royal Highness for every single one of those families who have come through the charity since 2003. They are always a part of me.

I remain incredibly proud of the team at Brain Tumour Support, and all those who over the years have been instrumental in making support available to families affected by a brain tumour. Each of them has contributed to improving our services and focusing on families in their time of desperation and loss.

Thank you to Emma McKeown and the team for nominating me – I feel honoured and deeply grateful.

Related news: www.braintumoursupport.co.uk/tina-mitchell-skinner-honoured-with-mbe

Read more about Tina’s story here: www.braintumoursupport.co.uk/about/our-story